10 Elegant & Easy Holiday Tablescape Ideas
There is nothing better than sitting down to a festive beautiful table with your favorite friends and family. As we gather around a table to share food, wine and conversation for any holiday (Thanksgiving or other holiday) we want our guests to always feel comfortable and welcomed.
We have lots of festive table setting ideas to share with you depending on your color scheme. From centerpieces to glassware, flatware, linens and name cards. We share lots of images to inspire you.
When the place settings are carefully set with purpose and, the floral arrangements and holiday decor are sparkling, your guests will instantly be in the mood for celebration. We are sharing 10 Elegant & Easy Holiday Tablescape Ideas.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider what color theme you want to go with
- Black and gold theme ideas
- Add greens to your floral arrangement and table decorations
- Add Christmas bulbs from a chandelier or in centerpiece.
- Dress up the chairs- fun ideas to decorate the chairs at the table
- Festive placemats and linen inspiration
- Live floral arrangement
- Artistic DIY Embellishments such as napkin rings, runners
- Floral and live arrangements and lots of candlelight
Simple Holiday Table Setting Ideas
Tis the season to gather ’round the heart of your home, where memories are made, laughter echoes, and joy flourishes—the dining table. Keeping it real with grace and joy.
As we approach the most wonderful time of the year, the enchanting art of setting the Christmas table takes center stage, transforming ordinary meals into extraordinary feasts.
How To Set A Festive Holiday Table
Join us on a journey filled with festive inspiration, as we explore the realm of holiday tablescape ideas and delve into the exquisite details of Christmas table settings. An elegant table setting may be easier than you may think. We have plenty of elegant & easy holiday table setting ideas below
Whether you’re hosting a grand Christmas Eve soirée, a cozy brunch with loved ones, or a delightful feast on the big day itself, the way you set the table is an expression of warmth, love, and the spirit of the season. Don’t forget the possibility of a dessert table as well.
In this enchanting exploration, we’ll learn how to set the holiday table with finesse and creativity, turning each place setting into a canvas for festive magic. We’ve curated a treasure trove of ideas to ignite your imagination and infuse your celebrations with that special holiday glow.
So, grab a cup of cocoa, immerse yourself in the yuletide spirit, and let’s embark on a journey through the wonderland of Christmas table settings, where every detail tells a story, and every arrangement is a celebration in itself
No matter what style you are looking for, we hope these suggestions will inspire you to set a festive tablescape for your holiday guests. Whether you are entertaining for Thanksgiving dinner, Hanukkah, New Year or Christmas, I hope these table setting ideas will inspire you to try something new.
What is your color scheme?
Figuring out what color scheme you want to use is a good first step. What color dinner plates do you plan to use? This may determine how you want to decorate your table.
Selecting the perfect color scheme for your holiday tablescape is akin to choosing the palette for a magnificent work of art—it sets the tone and creates a visual symphony that resonates with the festive spirit.
Begin by considering the ambiance you wish to evoke; whether it’s the timeless charm of classic red and green, the regal allure of gold and deep burgundy, or the contemporary chic of silver and blush pink, your color scheme will serve as the foundation for the entire tableau.
Harmonize your choices with the existing decor and your personal style, allowing the hues to seamlessly blend with the warmth of the season. Embrace the power of contrast for a dynamic visual impact or opt for a monochromatic scheme to evoke a sense of understated elegance.
The beauty lies in the details, so don’t be afraid to infuse pops of color through accessories like napkins, candles, and ornaments. Ultimately, let your chosen color scheme be a reflection of the joyous ambiance you wish to create—a vibrant expression of your holiday spirit.
1. Glam It Up- With Black and Gold
Black and gold combination is striking. This Victorian Crown Linen table runner can be used year-round to add elegance to any dining table or sideboard. For a fun look, use two table runners for a long table. Run the table runner down both sides of the table. The runner can act as a placemat. Use a table scarf in the middle of the table and scrunch it up around a floral arrangement to center the table.
The tableware aboive is by Arte Italica featured is hand-etch and painted with 24-karat gold highlights. Italian glass, Hand -made in Italy. Oh la la.
2. Add Greenery To Your Table
Adding greens to your table not only brings a nice texture, it smells good too! I always cut branches from various trees and grab holly bushes to mix with flowers and fun holiday decorations and bulbs.
Take a walk in your garden and see what greens you can use for your table. Pine, cedar or evergreen branches of magnolia, holy or salal and, pine cones works great for a centerpiece or lay on top of your table runner.
Or, tie the branches around a napkin. It’s a snap. Look at the sweet little branches stuffed into the ribbon around the napkins below. Love that idea.
3. Outdoor-Al Fresco Dining
Depending where you live, many people are planning on entertaining outside. If you are planning on serving up simple snacks and meals, consider an Italian or Parisian styled table setting. Shop Pasta Italiana at Rosanna Design. The gorgeous hand printed French tablecloths offer you an authentic feeling of eating Al Fresco in Europe.
Transforming your outdoor space into a festive al fresco wonderland for the holidays is a delightful way to embrace the season. Here’s a step-by-step guide to decorating your outdoor table.
Consider creating a cozy atmosphere with strategic lighting. String lights, fairy lights, or LED candles can be hung from nearby trees or draped along the table. They not only provide a magical glow but also enhance the festive spirit.
Choose holiday-themed or seasonally colored tableware to infuse a festive vibe. Consider rustic or wooden plates for a natural touch. Mix and match patterns and textures to create an eclectic and inviting setting.
Elevate each place setting with personalized touches. Create name tags using small ornaments or write guests’ names on decorative gift tags. This adds a thoughtful and intimate feel to the outdoor setting.
Lastly, consider crafting a stunning centerpiece that captures the holiday spirit. A rustic wooden crate filled with ornaments, pinecones, and candles can serve as a beautiful focal point. Alternatively, a cluster of lanterns surrounded by greenery creates a classic and inviting centerpiece.
You can never go wrong with a white tablecloth outdoors. It’s clean and offers that ideal backdrop for any color you want to add.
4. Decorate With Christmas Bulbs
Christmas bulbs add a fun element and sparkle to almost every area of your home including your dining room table. Christmas table decorations can be as easy as tree ornaments.
I hung my blue and silver hand blown glass bulbs from the chandelier with fishing wire or with a transparent ribbon so they appear to be hanging in the air. Such a pretty way to add an elegant festive look to any table.
Another idea is to roll a crisp white napkin and tie it loosely with ribbon. Slide a narrow length of ribbon through the knot of the wide ribbon, pull the ends of the wide ribbon to tighten the knot. Then thread festive ornaments onto the ends of the ribbon and secure.
Not only do bulbs look amazing carefully placed stacked in a large vase, placed on each plate or hung from the chandelier.
5. Dress The Chairs
I decorated our chairs with these cute mini-wreaths made from pinecones. I sprayed the wreaths with silver paint then clued tiny pearls to the pinecones to add a jewel effect. You can find mini wreaths at craft stores or dollar stores or make them yourself from faux branches, bells or greens.
Another idea is to drape a piece of fabric — a pretty towel, oversized napkin, or silk scarf — over the back of a chair and wrap a ribbon around the chair. Secure the ribbon in a knot at the back of the chair. See the images above for inspiration.
Use your fresh greens to add some interest. Pin greens and ribbon to the back of the chairs as another fun way to dress a chair for the holidays.
6. Floral and Live Plant Arrangements
You can never go wrong with a gorgeous floral arrangement and classic linens from Crown Linen as pictured above. Another fun idea is to use paper whites or Lily of the Valley plants to accessorize the dining room table.
Consider serving a festive holiday cocktail like the showy festive holiday cocktail.
7. Festive Dinnerware & Placemats
Talk about festive! The Crown Linen Natale is the perfect collection to entertain through the winter season. Berries and pine boughs surround the snowy evergreens. Natale napkin and runner pair perfectly with Arte Italica’s Natale Christmas pattern. It’s a stunning combination.
Look how pretty these lovely velvet ruffle placemats are! Gal Pal Goods now has matching velvet runners and placemats from Crown Linen. See here.
The ruffle placemats are a crown linen is my favorite- your guests will go nuts over them. I promise. I have these on my table. Shop there here.
8. The Cozy Table Setting
If you are setting the table for a family with children, then the stocking setting idea is ideal. Seriously, how cute is this?
If your holiday gathering is in a chilly location, consider placing cozy blankets or throws on the back of chairs. This not only adds warmth but also invites guests to wrap themselves in comfort.
Incorporate vintage or antique dishes, flatware, or glassware for a timeless and nostalgic feel. These unique pieces can add character and warmth to the table.
9. Artistic DIY Embellishments
How about making a DYI craft for your table? Try using interesting or plain ornaments and then decorating with glitter and glue. Tap off excess glitter and let dry. Glue the embellished ornaments to mirrored discs (available at crafts stores).
Remove the ornament hangers, pour a little water in the ornament and insert flowers and berries.
Get creative with place cards too. Decorate the cards with your personal style. Consider this idea: Personalize your table with watercolor place cards. Paint individual cards with festive motifs, guests’ names, or holiday messages. These hand-painted cards serve as both decorations and thoughtful keepsakes.
Upgrade your table setting with artistic charger plates. Choose plates adorned with abstract designs, watercolor patterns, or metallic finishes to add a touch of sophistication and creativity to each place setting.
Embrace the fall season with painted pumpkins or gourds as part of your table decor. Use metallic paints, acrylics, or even chalkboard paint to create unique designs or patterns.
Transform simple napkin rings into miniature works of art. Wrap napkins with handmade rings featuring beads, ribbon, or small ornaments that complement your chosen theme or color scheme.
Craft a personalized table runner using canvas or burlap. Paint or stencil festive designs, quotes, or holiday motifs onto the fabric for a custom and artistic touch.
10. Candles
If you are looking for a way to create a pretty tablescape without too much fuss… just add candles! Let’s face it… candles add romance and a warm atmosphere to any table. Votives or candles sticks are easy peasy. On my table I placed an extra large Voulpsa Candle from Nordstrom in the center of the table. I love this as a gorgeous centerpiece on the dining room table.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Tablescape Ideas
Q: How can I create a festive atmosphere with my holiday tablescape?
A: Infuse the spirit of the season by incorporating traditional elements like candles, ornaments, and evergreen foliage. Consider a color palette that resonates with the holidays, and don’t forget the magic of twinkling fairy lights to add a touch of enchantment.
Q: Are there any budget-friendly options for a stunning tablescape?
A: Absolutely! DIY projects using materials like pinecones, twine, and recycled glass can yield beautiful results without breaking the bank. Thrift stores and discount retailers are also treasure troves for affordable yet stylish table decor.
Q: Can I mix and match different tableware for a more eclectic look?
A: Embracing a mix-and-match approach can add character to your tablescape. Just ensure that there’s a unifying element, such as a shared color or theme, to maintain a cohesive and visually appealing arrangement.
Q: What’s the secret to a memorable place setting for Christmas?
A: Personalization is key. Consider incorporating name tags with a festive touch, like personalized ornaments or handwritten notes. Small, thoughtful details can make each place setting feel special and create lasting memories.
Q: How can I accommodate different dietary needs while planning my table decor? A: Opt for versatile tableware and decor that complements various dietary preferences. Consider neutral colors and classic designs that won’t clash with different types of cuisine, allowing your guests to focus on the joy of the occasion.
Q: Are there any non-traditional color schemes that work well for a modern holiday tablescape?
A: Absolutely! Consider contemporary color combinations such as navy and gold, silver and blush pink, or even a rustic palette of earthy tones. The key is to choose hues that resonate with your personal style while maintaining a festive flair.
Q: How do I incorporate natural elements into my holiday tablescape?
A: Bring the outdoors in by incorporating elements like pinecones, sprigs of evergreen, or even small potted plants. These additions not only add a touch of nature but also contribute to a fresh and timeless aesthetic.
Q: What lighting elements work best for a cozy holiday ambiance?
A: Candles, fairy lights, and string lights are perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Scatter them strategically across the table, and consider using candle holders or lanterns to enhance the overall charm.
Q: Can I reuse my holiday tablescape decor for other occasions?
A: Absolutely! Choose versatile decor elements that can transition seamlessly between holidays. For example, neutral table runners, versatile candle holders, and classic dishware can be repurposed for various celebrations throughout the year.
Q: Any tips for ensuring a stress-free setup on the day of the event?
A: Plan ahead! Preparing your tablescape a day or two before the event allows you to troubleshoot any issues and ensures a smoother setup. Enlist help if needed, and most importantly, enjoy the process—creating a stunning tablescape is part of the joy of hosting.
Holiday wishes to you and your family!
